Thought for the Day

Verse 17 - The expression "girding one's loins" meant to hoist up a long robe by tucking it into one's belt or girdle. According to Webster's Dictionary, the phrase also means "to get ready to do something difficult or strenuous." A virtuous woman strengthens herself in order to be able to perform difficult tasks. She prospers because she has strength and perseverance to do what is right.

Man is composed of spirit, soul (comprised of will, intellect and emotions) and body. We all face physical, mental, and spiritual trials and need to be strong to overcome them. Since each part of our beings affects the others, we must strive to strengthen all of them.

Our physical bodies must have the right kind of diet and exercise to remain strong and healthy. We should be careful to discipline ourselves regarding proper eating habits and regular exercise. Even as we feed our physical bodies, we should also not neglect to feed our spirits by meditating upon God's Word. Obeying His voice exercises and strengthens our spirits. Our souls are fed by input and study that enlightens the mind and refines the emotions. Keeping the soul in correct balance also strengthens it. The will must rule the intellect and emotions. We must take the responsibility of choosing to think on what is edifying and reject what is compromising.

Our families depend on us. Jesus came to earth in a physical body as a tiny baby and His mother, Mary, cared for Him in the natural as well as provided the proper spiritual environment for Him. We must ask God for the strength to perform the important tasks before us. True strength is both moral and physical. It comes by taking care of every area of our beings. We are able to overcome when we are strong in body and soul, as well as in the Lord and the power of His might.

Verse 18 - A virtuous woman examines what she makes to be sure it is of good quality. She does whatever is necessary to achieve good workmanship. In the natural, this may mean working extra hours and "burning the candle" at night to complete a particular job. Spiritually, it means that her light of hope, faith and determination will not go out in the soul's night of trouble, fear or discouragement. She prevails because she has made herself spiritually, mentally and physically strong; ready to work hard and meet life's challenges.